Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Tips For Safe Trick-Or-Treating

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office and the county’s fire agencies are offering the following advice to help children stay safe while they’re out trick-or-treating:

• Wear light-colored clothing or costumes and use make-up instead of a mask so you can see.• Make sure your parents know your trick-or-treat route.• Carry a flashlight or light stick.• Stay in your own neighborhood.• Always keep a safe distance from moving cars.• Be respectful of other people and their property.• Stop only at well-lit houses.• Have a parent check the treats before you eat them.• Start early. End early.• Use sidewalks or walk facing traffic.• Stop, look and listen at corners.• Walk, don’t run.• Don’t walk between parked cars or crisscross back and forth across streets.• Don’t go inside a stranger’s house for any reason.• Don’t go near a stranger’s car even if they offer you candy or money.

It’s also important for drivers to keep in mind that there will be more pedestrians near roads than normal on Halloween, especially in residential neighborhoods. Slow down and stay alert.

If you’re planning to attend a Halloween party where alcohol is involved, make sure to designate a driver, or have the number of a cab company before you go. Don’t drink and drive.